If you are looking for a treat that combines a soft, chewy texture with a rich, nutty crunch and cozy fall flavors, this Protein Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe is an absolute must-try. These blondies are beautifully golden thanks to browned butter, with chopped pecans adding the perfect crunch and snickerdoodle protein powder lending a delicious twist while packing in extra nutrition. Whether you’re on a low-carb journey or just want a sugar-free indulgence, this recipe is gluten free, low carb, and surprisingly simple to make. It’s basically fall baked right into a pan, perfect for an afternoon snack or post-workout boost!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows six steps of mixing cake batter in a clear glass bowl placed on a white marbled surface. The first layer is light brown sugar piled on top of melted butter, golden and shiny. The second step shows the sugar and butter being stirred with a pink whisk, creating a bubbly, frothy light brown mixture. The third step adds a bright yellow egg yolk sitting on the batter. In the fourth step, the pink whisk stirs the combined egg, butter, and sugar into a foamy, smooth light brown mix. The fifth step has a mound of white flour on top of the batter in the bowl. The final step shows the batter thick, smooth, and creamy light brown as the woman's hand uses the pink whisk to mix the flour in. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients come together in the most delightful way, each playing a key role in the rich flavor, satisfying texture, and wholesome nutrition of your blondies. Mixing simple but thoughtful pantry staples allows you to create a snack that tastes like a treat but feels like nourishment.

  • ½ cup butter melted & browned: Browning the butter adds deep, nutty flavor that forms the base of the blondies
  • 2 tablespoons sugar-free maple syrup (allulose-based): Provides a natural sweetness and subtle maple aroma without added sugar
  • ½ cup brown sweetener (allulose-based): Gives a caramel-like taste and chewy texture without spiking blood sugar
  • 1 egg (room temperature): Binds ingredients perfectly and keeps the blondies soft and tender
  • ½ cup protein powder (Snickerdoodle Keto Chow recommended): Adds a cozy spice note while boosting protein content and nutrition
  • ½ cup pecans chopped: Delivers crunch and buttery richness, complementing the maple and butter flavors

How to Make Protein Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Keep stirring occasionally and watch closely as the butter froths and then turns a rich golden brown with a nutty aroma. This step is critical because it adds incredible depth to the final baked blondies, so don’t rush it. Set aside to cool slightly before mixing.

Step 2: Mix Sweeteners with Butter

Once your browned butter is ready and cooled, whisk in the sugar-free maple syrup and brown sweetener. You want the sweetener to fully dissolve, which creates a smooth batter and ensures every bite has that balanced sweetness you are craving.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Protein Powder

Whisk the room temperature egg into your sweetened butter mixture. This helps bind all the ingredients together. Then gently fold in your snickerdoodle protein powder, which not only adds flavor but transforms these blondies into a satisfying protein-packed snack that’s still soft in the middle.

Step 4: Fold in the Pecans

Chop your pecans coarsely and fold them into the batter. These nuts provide an irresistible crunch that contrasts the moist, chewy texture really well. Make sure they’re well distributed so every square gets a little nutty surprise.

Step 5: Bake the Blondies

Transfer the batter to a parchment-lined 8×8 inch baking pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for 15 to 20 minutes. To test doneness, insert a toothpick in the center — it should come out clean, indicating your protein maple pecan blondies are perfectly baked.

How to Serve Protein Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe

A white plate holds about a dozen square-shaped bars stacked unevenly. Each bar is a warm brown color with a slightly rough texture showing small bits of nuts inside. The edges of the bars are a bit darker, giving a toasted look. The background surface is a white marbled texture, with a pinecone and two small white pumpkins visible in soft focus behind the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans on top before serving for added crunch and visual appeal. A light drizzle of sugar-free maple syrup or a dusting of cinnamon can enhance the cozy flavors and make them feel extra special.

Side Dishes

Pair these blondies with a creamy cup of coffee or your favorite nut milk latte. If you want to turn it into a more substantial snack, try a side of Greek yogurt or cottage cheese to complement the protein content and add a creamy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the blondies into bite-sized squares and serve on a decorative platter for a gorgeous party spread. You can also layer pieces with a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream or swirl some peanut butter on top for a decadent protein-packed dessert bar.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These blondies stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The texture remains soft and chewy, making it easy to enjoy little treats throughout the week.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the blondies in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm to enjoy that fresh-baked feel again.

Reheating

Warm your blondies in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or place them in a warm oven for a few minutes to revive that lovely chewiness and melt-in-your-mouth goodness. This step is especially nice if you’re enjoying them straight from the freezer.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein powder in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite protein powder, but keep in mind the texture and flavor may change a bit. Snickerdoodle flavors bring a cozy touch, but vanilla or unflavored powders also work great.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, this Protein Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe is naturally gluten free as it does not include any wheat-based flours. Just be sure the protein powder you use is labeled gluten free if you have a strong sensitivity.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

This version relies on butter and egg, which are not vegan. However, you can experiment with vegan butter and a flax egg substitute, though the texture may be slightly different. The browned butter flavor is unique, so consider adding a bit of toasted coconut oil for nuttiness.

How many blondies can I eat in a serving?

The recipe yields 12 moderate-sized squares with about 117 calories each. Because it’s packed with protein and low carbs, you can comfortably enjoy more than one square if you want extra protein or a bigger snack.

What’s the best way to achieve a crispy edge on these blondies?

Baking them in an 8×8 pan at 350°F and baking around 18-20 minutes will give you chewy centers with slightly crisp edges. Don’t overbake if you want softer blondies, but a few minutes longer leads to that nice caramelized crust.

Final Thoughts

If you want to enjoy a snack that perfectly balances indulgence and nourishment, I cannot recommend this Protein Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe enough. It’s one of those magic recipes where wholesome ingredients transform into something delightfully cozy and satisfying. Whether you’re meal prepping protein-packed treats or just craving a warm, nutty dessert, these blondies hit the spot every single time. Give them a try and get ready to fall in love!

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Protein Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe

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4.1 from 8 reviews

Chewy, golden blondies with a nutty crunch and cozy maple flavor, made with browned butter, chopped pecans, and snickerdoodle protein powder. These gluten free, sugar free, and low carb treats are soft in the middle, slightly crisp at the edges, and secretly packed with protein, perfect for a healthy fall-inspired dessert.

  • Author: Martha
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 squares
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

  • ½ cup butter, melted and browned
  • 2 tablespoons sugar-free maple syrup (allulose-based)
  • 1 egg, room temperature

Dry Ingredients

  • ½ cup brown sweetener (allulose-based)
  • ½ cup protein powder (1 serving or scoop, Snickerdoodle Keto Chow recommended)

Add-ins

  • ½ cup chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) to ensure it’s ready when your batter is prepared.
  2. Brown Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt and brown the butter, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-10 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. Set the browned butter aside to cool slightly.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Stir together the browned butter, brown sweetener, and sugar-free maple syrup until the sweetener dissolves completely. Then whisk in the room temperature egg until well combined.
  4. Add Protein Powder: Mix the snickerdoodle protein powder into the wet ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even batter.
  5. Fold in Pecans: Gently fold the chopped pecans into the batter, distributing them evenly.
  6. Prepare Baking Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, then transfer the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly.
  7. Bake: Bake the blondies in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the blondies to cool in the pan before slicing into 12 squares. Enjoy a chewy, protein-packed treat with perfect fall flavors.

Notes

  • Protein Powder: You can substitute the protein powder with your preferred brand or almond flour, but note that nutrition information will vary accordingly. Keto Chow is recommended for flavor and nutrition.
  • Sweeteners: Choose sweeteners that fit your dietary needs. This recipe uses allulose-based sweeteners and sugar-free maple syrup, ideal for low-carb lifestyles.
  • Egg Temperature: Use a room temperature egg for best mixing and texture, especially important for keto and gluten-free baking.
  • Serving Size: The recipe makes relatively small squares, so you can eat more than one for extra protein intake without much added carbs or calories.
  • Nutrition Accuracy: Some ingredients like allulose are included in the carb count but do not impact blood sugar. Use carb-counting tools like Cronometer for precise nutrition based on your ingredient brands.

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